Abstract: A method of weather proofing an opening through which an electrical cord passes. The method involves modifying the electrical cord by the addition of an elongate resilient deformable truncated conical sealing element. The electrical cord extends through a longitudinal passage in the truncated conical sealing element. The truncated conical sealing element is received into the opening in interference fit relation to provide a weather seal. The truncated conical sealing element can be integrally moulded to form part of an electrical plug. The opening may be modified with trumpet bell form lips to further enhance the weather seal.

Abstract: A housing for a retractable cord mechanism includes a first body, a second body and a coupling for securing the first body to the second body in a water tight manner to create a composite body with an interior cavity. The composite body has a snout-like projection with an opening positioned at a terminus of the snout-like projection. The composite body is mounted with the snout-like projection angled downwardly such that any water splashed up into the interior cavity of the composite housing drains by force of gravity out of the opening at the terminus of the snout-like projection.